Favorite Picks for 2010

When I first started assembling information for this post, I thought I was going to write about The Best Gardening Gifts for 2010. But you know how it is on the web; one thing leads to another.

This is where I landed; with a list that consists of a hodgepodge of projects, products, services, institutions and publications, all that I have seen or used (except for one product) and which I unabashedly recommend. This in no way is meant to be a ‘best of’ list. It is strictly ‘my favorites’. So, without further ado, let’s get started.

“Their active captive breeding and research program promotes the conservation of amphibians. “More than one-third of the world’s amphibian species are considered threatened or endangered. Recently, an emerging infectious disease known as the amphibian chytrid fungus has been shown to wipe out massive numbers of amphibians from pristine natural locations in many places around the world. This disease is currently unstoppable in the wild, but treatable in captivity.”

A big thank you goes out to Rhett Turner of Red Sky Productions who brought Atlantic Botanical Garden’s research and conservation efforts to my attention. Rhett’s work as a producer of environmental films is noteworthy.

Garden Magazine: THE GARDEN

The Garden is a monthly magazine published by Royal Horticultural Society. This is the ‘go to’ magazine for gardeners who are more interested in reading a publication that is chock full of useful information . It is an unheralded publication in the U. S. market; it continually surprises and informs me. I wouldn’t be without it. And hey, who wouldn’t want to be a member of the Royal Horticultural Society. Even if you don’t make use it, you get bragging rights. To order, click on: RHS MEMBERSHIP.

Even if you don’t live in NYC, it feels great to support a botanical garden that is committed to community involvement, teaching, research and educating children. It’s an innovative 100 year old institution. As a member, you receive 4 BBG soft covered books annually; all with information on useful subjects and an easy read.

If you’re interested in learning more about green roofs and vertical gardens, becoming a member of Green Roofs is worth every penny. All of the latest information on the green roof industry, course offerings, conferences, publications and access to their online magazine is an opportunity to immerse yourself into the ever growing world of green roofs.

The unveiling of their new indoor vertical wall in October has brought Longwood Gardens into the forefront of the gardening world. Located in its East Conservatory Plaza wing, the wall is the 4,072 sq ft, displacing the title of North America’s largest green wall from the PNC Bank building in Pittsburgh by over 70 percent. The green wall was designed by GSky. It is made up of over 47,000 plants.

This invention shows what one individual can do when they have the desire to make a change in the world. Big Belly is gaining momentum in cities throughout America. Its efficiency, cutting edge technology, environmentally sound and monetary paybacks are enormous. Hopefully, the word will get out as other cities learn about it. It is a hands down winner in my book.I wrote about it in an earlier post on The Best Cities for Recycling.

I’ve sung its praises in an earlier post. Suffice it to say that even in a city like New York, it dazzles and boggles the mind of residents and visitors throughout the city. With the second phase of construction beginning this month, The Highline will expand its presence above the streets of Manhattan. It is quickly becoming a NYC Landmark.

This is a garden that makes me smile every time I visit. Chanticleer celebrates the artistry and beauty of plants and the landscape. With an able Executive Director, Bill Thomas, and a creative and skillful team of horticulturists, Chanticleer maintains a good balance of playfulness and intensity.

Philadelphia has over 3000 murals strutting their stuff on walls and throughout the streets. This is thanks to the vision, tenacity and creativity of one woman, Jane Golden, whose belief that ‘Art Changes Lives’ transformed a nascent anti-graffiti project into a world renowned multidimensional arts program. This is a jaw-dropping inspirational program that other cities are now modeling.

It is an outstanding organization that helps women who are survivors of wars become active citizens, learning how to support themselves and their families. You can choose from 4 categories: organic farming, job skills training, education and animals. It’s a win win proposition for everyone. And if you want to treat yourself to a very special gift this Christmas become a sponsor.

There are several other seed catalogues that I enjoy and order from. But Seeds of Change, organic and with heirloom and new selections plus the yearly staples, keeps me engaged from the moment it shows up in my mailbox.

Ram Dass is a renowned spiritual teacher and writer has inspired spiritual seekers for over 4 decades. In this thoughtful and humble book filled with wisdom, Ram Dass shares what he has learned over the past 40 years with a humble, humorous and loving voice.

Sort of a gardening (but not) Book of 2010:SLOW LOVE , Dominique Browning

Dominique Browning, the Editor of the now defunct House and Gardens, knows how to write a riveting book. Her personal journey, in which gardening plays a prominent role, is open, authentic, and inspirational.

Fran is the author of the recently published 10th Anniversary Edition of Digging Deep: Unearthing Your Creative Roots Through Gardening, which Andrew Weil, M.D., recommends as "a profound and inspiring book".

A graduate of the University of Chicago with Honors in Psychology, she is also a gardening and creativity expert, coach, inspirational speaker, and CBS Radio New correspondent.

Click on Fran's website, www.fransorin.com, to sign up to receive a free gift: "The 38 Creative Tips That Are Preventing You From Leading A Richer Life" and to read articles on creativity, well-being, gardening, and spirituality.

Fine choices, Frannie, thanks! I already take 2 British gardening mags, didn’t know about this one. Will have to look into it. As for the last one, the young Brad Pitt is quite a feast for the eyes in addition to the beautiful landscape!
Frances

Frances,
Thanks. Am assuming that one of the English magazines you subscirbe to is Gardens Illustrated. What’s the other one?

Frannie, what a super list. I can’t wait to read Slow Love. I’m blown away by the living wall at Longwood! Any list like this is subjective, reflecting the taste of the writer. Sweetie, yours is superb—and I’m not just sayin’ that because of the lovely shout-out you gave Succulent Chic. (Much appreciated.)

Thanks Debra. It was alot of fun to do. And yes about Longwood….I’m sure we’re going to be reading much more about it over the next 6 months!

Lovely and varied group of ideas Debra! Maybe someday if I wish on the right star, I’ll be on your list. Not sure what for, but who knows.
Giving “Succulent Container Gardens” to a girlfriend for Christmas this year- points? LOL!
Hi, sweet Christina — You’re already on my list as a super designer, engaging writer/blogger and cherished Facebook friend! Incidentally, Fran Sorin wrote this post, not me, though it’s tempting to take credit for it ;+)– Debra